Steps to Becoming a Correctional Officer

You have decided the Correctional Officer position might be right for you so you are ready to start the application process. Here we will outline some things you need to know.

Step 1: The Online Application

1. Visit DHR to apply online.

2. Choose the Correctional Officer announcement where the location is somewhere you would want to work. We have correctional officers in our faclities all around the state. If you don't see a Correctional Officer link or the location is not somewhere you want to work, sign up for email notifications for our job postings.

3. Click the button that says "Apply Online" and follow the instructions on the announcement. You will need to complete 2 tests.

4. Make sure you have a full 60 minutes of uninterrupted time to take the written exam. You may also find it helpful to have a pencil, paper and calculator handy.

Step 2: The Background Investigation

1. Download the Background Investigation Questionnaire, print it and complete it. Click here for more detailed instructions about how to complete this form.

2. Submit the background questionnaire, proof of US citizenship, high school diploma/GED/transcripts and DD-214 (if applicable) to our office. Backgrounds are processed in the order they are received so send it in as soon as you have it completed.

3. Wait. The background may take 2-3 weeks to process. Your application status at DHR will be inactive. We do this to manage applications and as long as you have submitted a Background Investigation Questionnaire, your application is in process.

4. You will be contacted by Human Resource Services if we have questions about your background, need additional information from you or if we have an update about the status. Check your email often and keep an ear out for your phone to ring.

5. If your background is not approved, you will get a letter in your email to let you know you were not selected as a top candidate.

Step 3: Interview

If you are selected to move forward in the application process, you will be asked to come to one of our facilities for an interview. At this time, you need to bring your proof of US citizenship, proof of high school graduation and military discharge paperwork (if applicable).

Step 4: Conditional Offer of Employment and POST Certification Paperwork

If you are selected as a top candidate after the interview, you may be given a conditional offer of employment and asked to fill out POST Academy Application Paperwork. The Idaho POST Academy is the agency which oversees the training and certification of law enforcement officers in Idaho.

Step 5: Correctional Officer Training

Idaho Department of Correction employees are provided with the tools needed to succeed as Correctional Officers. We offer 10 weeks of paid training including New Employee Orientation, Job Shadowing, POST Academy and Field Training. Click here for an overview of the training schedule.